The Tata Tiago EV outperforms several cars with higher performance outputs
The Tata Tiago EV is one of the most affordable electric vehicles (EVs) available in India, priced between Rs 8.69 lakh and Rs 12.04 lakh (ex-showroom). It comes with two battery pack options: 19.2kWh and 24kWh, providing a range of up to 250 kms and 315 kms, respectively.
We recently tested the Tiago EV with the larger battery pack and an electric motor rated at 75PS and 114Nm. While its 0-100kmph acceleration times may not be extraordinary, this entry-level electric hatchback is still faster than several popular cars with similar or higher performance outputs.
Here is a list of these cars and their respective 0-100kmph acceleration times:
Tata Tiago EV – 13.43 seconds
Model
Tested Figures (0-100KMPH)
Toyota Glanza MT
13.54 seconds
Maruti XL6 AT
13.67 seconds
Maruti Grand Vitara AWD
13.99 seconds
Toyota Innova Crysta Diesel AT
14.11 seconds
Citroen C3
14.32 seconds
Mahindra Bolero Neo
15.13 seconds
Tata Tiago Petrol MT
15.29 seconds
Maruti Celerio AMT
15.77 seconds
Citroen eC3
16.36 seconds
Tata Altroz DCA
18.25 seconds
Key Takeaways:
The car closest in performance to the Tiago EV on this list is the Toyota Glanza, which features a 90PS 1.2-litre petrol engine paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. The Tiago EV’s win is particularly impressive considering that manual cars usually have a quicker launch.
The Maruti XL6 is approximately 0.2 seconds slower than the Tiago EV and is equipped with a 105PS 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The Maruti Grand Vitara AWD comes with a 5-speed manual transmission and shares the same engine as the XL6.
The Toyota Innova Crysta is the most powerful car on the list, featuring a 150PS 2.4-litre diesel engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. However, the mentioned model is no longer available for sale as the diesel variant of the MPV only comes with a manual transmission now.
The Citroen C3 is almost a second slower than the Tiago EV, while its electric version lags by nearly 3 seconds. The electric version of the Citroen C3 is a direct competitor to the Tiago EV, offering less power at 57PS but more torque at 143Nm.
The only other diesel car on this list is the Mahindra Bolero Neo, equipped with a 1.5-litre diesel engine. Despite its 100PS power output and 260Nm torque, combined with a 5-speed manual transmission, it is still over a second slower than the Tiago EV in reaching 100kmph.
The petrol version of the Tata Tiago is around 1.5 seconds slower than its electric counterpart.
At the end of the list, we find the Maruti Celerio AMT. Despite having only 67PS and 98Nm from its 1-litre petrol engine, the Celerio is significantly lighter with a kerb weight of just 820kg.
A surprising inclusion on this list is the Tata Altroz DCA. It is equipped with the same 1.2-litre petrol engine as the petrol version of the Tiago, but in this case, it is mated to a refined 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. However, it is nearly 5 seconds slower in reaching 100kmph compared to the Tiago EV.
What makes the Tiago EV quicker?
The Tiago EV may not have impressive numbers on paper, but one of the biggest advantages of an electric powertrain is its instant performance delivery.
These are some of the most iconic celebrity endorsements for cars in India, including some partnerships that are still continuing
Brands often use celebrity endorsements to attract potential customers and make their products more appealing, and carmakers are no exception. In addition to regular product updates and improvements, car brands in India have partnered with various popular celebrities over the past two decades. Here is a list of the top 10 Indian celebrities who have acted as brand ambassadors in the country’s automotive industry:
Sachin Tendulkar – BMW India and Fiat Palio
Sachin Tendulkar, an iconic figure in Indian cricket, endorses many products and serves as a brand ambassador for numerous companies. One of these companies is BMW India, which appointed Sachin Tendulkar as its brand ambassador in 2012.
But BMW wasn’t the first car brand to have Sachin endorse their products. In 2001, Fiat made Sachin Tendulkar the brand ambassador for its soon-to-be-launched model, the Fiat Palio. Fiat even created a special limited edition of the Palio dedicated to Sachin called the S10, which combined his initials and jersey number. Sachin Tendulkar himself launched the Palio S10.
Shah Rukh Khan – Hyundai Santro and Hyundai i10
Shah Rukh Khan, the King of Bollywood, is known for endorsing various products. In the automotive world, he was signed as the brand ambassador for Hyundai Santro when it was launched in 1998. SRK later went on to endorse the Hyundai i10 and has since become an integral part of Hyundai’s brand image. Recently, the carmaker appointed cricketer Hardik Pandya as the brand ambassador for their upcoming micro-SUV, the Hyundai Exter.
Amitabh and Abhishek Bachchan – Maruti Versa
Amitabh Bachchan and his son Abhishek were signed as the brand ambassadors for Maruti Versa, a people mover launched in 2001. Maruti introduced the father-son duo as the faces of its MPV, and both Bachchans launched the Versa together. The ad campaign featured both Bachchans in the MPV, with Abhishek driving and Amitabh sitting in the second-row seat.
Abhishek Bachchan also endorsed the Ford Fiesta in 2006 but was not a brand ambassador.
Aamir Khan – Toyota Innova
Aamir Khan endorsed one of Toyota’s most popular models in India, the Toyota Innova. He served as the brand ambassador for the MPV when it was first launched in 2005. The Innova is still available in the country, with options like the diesel-only Innova Crysta and the Innova Hycross, which offers a strong hybrid powertrain.
Virat Kohli – Audi India
Virat Kohli, former captain of the Indian cricket team and a car enthusiast, became the brand ambassador for Audi India in 2015. He owns several models from the German carmaker, including the R8, which he purchased in 2012. Virat Kohli’s jersey number, 18, is well-known among cricket fans and adds to his association with Audi.
Ranbir Kapoor – Renault India
In 2015, Renault signed actor Ranbir Kapoor as the brand ambassador for its range of cars. Before that, Ranbir had been the brand ambassador for Nissan Micra. Ranbir later endorsed Renault models like the Duster and Kwid. In a Renault Kwid ad campaign, Ranbir disguised himself as a Renault salesman and showcased the car to a couple at a Renault dealership.
Ranveer Singh – Maruti Nexa
Ranveer Singh was roped in as the brand ambassador for Maruti’s Nexa range of cars in 2014. He first endorsed the Maruti Ciaz, followed by the Maruti XL6 and the Maruti Baleno. In the campaign for Maruti’s premium models, Ranveer Singh was often seen wearing a suit to highlight the cars’ premium nature, making him a suitable choice for the brand ambassador of Maruti’s Nexa lineup.
R Madhavan – Maruti Wagon R
Before Ranveer Singh became the brand ambassador for Maruti’s Nexa lineup, R Madhavan endorsed one of Maruti’s popular models, the Maruti Wagon R. In 2009, Maruti signed R Madhavan, known for his role in the movie 3 Idiots, as the brand ambassador for the third-generation Wagon R. One of the TV ads showed Madhavan traveling with his friends and singing about the Wagon R’s features and ride quality.
John Abraham – Nissan India
John Abraham, an avid bike and car enthusiast, became the brand ambassador for Nissan India in 2016. He endorsed the carmaker’s upcoming models in the country and was present at the 2016 Auto Expo, where he promoted the Nissan X-Trail and the GT-R. John Abraham also owns a GT-R himself.
Sunil Shetty – Ford Endeavour
In 2009, Ford India signed actor Sunil Shetty as the brand ambassador for the Ford Endeavour, their premium SUV model. The 2009 Ford Endeavour came with diesel engine options and both 4X2 and 4X4 drivetrains. However, Ford eventually decided to withdraw from the Indian market in 2020 due to significant losses.
This week we received updates on upcoming car launches and saw some interesting spy shots.
This week, the major highlights include updates on upcoming products from Maruti and Hyundai. Volvo also unveiled its second electric vehicle in India. Mahindra launched its flagship SUV outside India, and we also came across some intriguing spy shots. Let’s take a brief look at what happened this week:
Hyundai Exter Interior Revealed
Hyundai has officially revealed the interior of its upcoming micro SUV, the Exter. The carmaker has also confirmed a few more features on the Exter, some of which are a first in the segment. Recently, Hyundai Exter appointed a famous all-rounder from the Indian cricket team as its brand ambassador.
Maruti’s Premium MPV Name Confirmed
Maruti’s upcoming premium MPV has been officially named “Invicto,” and its launch date has also been announced. Some select Nexa dealerships are now accepting reservations for the MPV.
Citroen C3 Price Update
Citroen is set to increase the prices of its hatchback, the C3, from July 2023. This will be the third price hike of the C3 this year and the fourth since its inception.
Mahindra XUV700 Launched In Australia
Mahindra has launched its flagship SUV, the XUV700, in Australia, but only in limited variants. Unlike in India, the XUV700 in Australia is offered with only one engine option. The XUV700 in Australia has a similar set of features as the one offered in India.
Update On Maruti Jimny Booking
This week, we received an update on the booking numbers and waiting period of the Maruti Jimny. The off-road SUV has already been launched in India and is available in two broad variants. We have also provided a detailed list of official accessories available with the Jimny.
Spy Shots This Week
This week’s spy shots include test mules of the 5-door Force Gurkha, which has been spied with a new off-road feature. We also got a sneak peek of Mahindra’s XUV300 interior. Additionally, the facelifted Hyundai i20 N Line has been spied for the first time.
Volvo C40 Recharge Unveiled
Volvo has unveiled its new electric vehicle in India, the C40 Recharge. The launch date of the C40 Recharge has also been confirmed. This is Volvo’s second all-electric offering in India after the XC40 Recharge.
Suzuki made a big impact with its 2023 lineup of middleweight motorcycles, which have been praised for their innovative features and updated technology. The V-Strom 800DE and GSX-8S models, in particular, have gained a lot of attention and are expected to be bestsellers. As a result, the aftermarket for accessories for these bikes, such as the new slip-on exhaust system from Akrapovič, is rapidly growing.
When it comes to aftermarket exhausts, one of the most popular brands is Akrapovič. The Slovenian company has recently released a new slip-on exhaust system specifically designed for the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE. As with their other exhaust systems, Akrapovič focuses on improving performance and reducing weight. The system is made from lightweight materials such as titanium and carbon fiber. Installation is easy, as it is a slip-on system that utilizes existing hardware and mounts directly to the stock manifold.
In terms of performance gains, Akrapovič claims the new slip-on system is 23.6% lighter and provides a slight increase of one horsepower and one Newton-meter of torque. The system is also fully homologated to ECE and Euro 5 standards, ensuring its legality in European countries.
Pricing for the Akrapovič slip-on system has not been officially announced, but it is expected to command a premium price. Similar exhaust systems for other models, such as the Yamaha Tenere 700 and Aprilia Tuareg 660, are priced around $1,000 USD. Availability for the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE slip-on system will likely depend on market demand.
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the popularity of electric vehicles, particularly motorcycles. This trend is particularly evident in the Asian market, where electric scooters and motorbikes are valued for their practicality and affordability. Many of the leading electric two-wheeler companies are based in the region, with India and China playing a key role. Yadea, a Chinese brand, is one such company with plans for expansion.
Yadea offers a wide range of models tailored to suit the needs of various commuters. Their lineup includes electric scooters, mopeds, and bicycles designed to provide practical and affordable mobility solutions. As an up and coming company, Yadea shows no signs of slowing down. Recently, they announced a $1 billion investment in a new production facility in the Philippines.
While the Philippines has yet to fully embrace electrification, there has been a growing number of electric scooters and bicycles on its roads. Zero, a California-based electric motorbike manufacturer, has also struck a deal with a major corporation in the Philippines to produce electric motorcycles for the Southeast Asian market. Given the heavy reliance on motorcycles for mobility in the Philippines, setting up shop in the country holds great potential for Yadea. Moreover, the government’s efforts to attract direct foreign investment through lowered taxes and accelerated permit processing further enhance the appeal of the Philippines as a manufacturing base.
Yadea currently has six production facilities in China and one in Vietnam, where they manufacture electric two-wheelers for sale in their respective markets as well as for export to neighboring countries. The company has expressed interest in filing a Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) application to establish a battery factory in Batangas, located about an hour’s drive from the country’s capital of Manila. Once approved and built, this battery facility will cater to local demand and meet the requirements of neighboring Asian countries.
The Motorcycle Travel Channel has been on a road trip for almost two months, starting from Arizona and now reaching British Columbia. This is the 29th episode of the series, but the 21st episode is particularly interesting as it showcases a variety of things to see and do.
It took 21 episodes for the channel to reach British Columbia, and in the latest video, episode 29, the host, Sterling, is close to completing his trip. Currently in Arizona, the exploration of British Columbia is captivating and definitely worth watching.
Sterling’s videos on his BMW motorcycle are filled with breathtaking scenery, highlighting the natural beauty that Canada has to offer. While camping has been a major part of the trip, Sterling has also enjoyed the hospitality of inns and small hotels along the way.
Episode 21 of the series shows some unfortunate mishaps with Sterling’s equipment, such as a pannier and a monopod getting damaged due to an unplanned tip-over. However, these incidents have only emphasized the theme of “minimalism” that Sterling has embraced throughout his journey.
The video showcases stunning shots of the Fraser River and takes viewers on a journey through the Fishing Highway (Highway 24), which is connected to various lakes. Overall, the rest of the video provides a visual treat for adventure enthusiasts.
The remainder of the video continues to impress with stunning visuals. To catch up on the series, check out the latest upload from the Motorcycle Travel Channel on YouTube. Sterling is now back in Arizona, concluding an amazing trip that spanned thousands of miles, required hundreds of liters of fuel, and offered countless breathtaking sights.
Givi, a renowned brand in motorcycle luggage, has unveiled its latest top box model called the Maxia 5. This high-end top box is part of the Maxia line, known for its premium plastic top boxes. With the fifth generation of the Maxia series, Givi has made several refinements to enhance the commuting experience.
In addition to their range of helmets, Givi has retained its expertise in designing top-of-the-line cases. The Maxia 5 features a modern and sleek design, standing out from the crowd of traditional black boxes. Givi’s “Innovative Molding” technology ensures precise shaping, making it suitable for scooters, adventure bikes, and sport standards. Despite its lightweight construction, weighing just under 12 pounds (5.4 kilograms), the Maxia 5 is built to last.
The Maxia 5 offers up to 58 liters of storage space, making it ideal for carrying essential items and even two modular helmets. Riders can customize the box with up to four colored aluminum inserts, adding a pop of color to the elegant design. The box also includes a striking red reflector for enhanced safety, a black foam rubber backrest for passengers, and a convenient document holder. To further enhance functionality, Givi provides a specially-designed interior bag.
Security is a priority with the Maxia 5, featuring a double-hook Security Lock for added protection against theft. The box also incorporates new comb-type hinges, allowing for a smooth one-hand open operation.
The Givi Maxia 5 is priced at €474 (approximately $520 USD, including VAT) according to current exchange rates.
In a unique approach to selling pre-owned motorcycles, BMW Motorrad Italy has gone beyond the conventional methods by transforming old bikes and scooters into a genuine product line, regardless of their age and date of first registration.
Alessandro Salimbeni, General Manager of BMW Motorrad Italy, stated, “A BMW motorcycle that has already traveled a long way is a motorcycle that has already experienced adventures and has a story to tell. Each BMW Timeless vehicle has explored different landscapes, overcome challenges, and is ready to embark on new journeys with its new owner. If a motorcycle’s value lies in its history, BMW Motorrad’s responsibility is to nurture and preserve that value over time. With BMW Timeless, our brand becomes even more inclusive and accessible. We now consider pre-owned BMWs to be on par with our new products, offering not only exclusive services like BMSI maintenance packages and tailored financial solutions but also an entire brand campaign. In the current market scenario, I firmly believe that used BMWs present an intriguing alternative to new products, even from other brands.”
Original Quote:
(“Una moto BMW che ha già fatto un po’ di strada è una moto che ha già vissuto delle avventure, con una storia da raccontare. Ogni BMW Timeless ha viaggiato, visto paesaggi e superato sfide ed è pronta a farlo ancora insieme al suo nuovo proprietario. E se il valore di una moto è proprio la sua storia, noi di BMW Motorrad abbiamo il compito di supportarlo nel tempo. Con BMW Timeless il marchio BMW Motorrad diventa ancora più inclusivo, rendendosi di fatto ancor più accessibile. Oggi consideriamo l’usato BMW con lo stesso pregio del nostro prodotto nuovo, dedicandogli oltre a servizi esclusivi, come i pacchetti di manutenzione BMSI o specifiche soluzioni finanziarie d’acquisto, anche una vera e propria campagna di brand. Credo fermamente che nell’attuale scenario di mercato l’usato BMW rappresenti un’interessante alternativa a prodotti nuovi, anche di altre marche, soprattutto per quei motociclisti più esigenti che sognano di guidare una moto dai grandi contenuti tecnologici e capace di regalare un impareggiabile piacere di guida, senza tralasciare il non trascurabile dato del prezzo d’acquisto.”)
Instead of simply selling pre-owned motorcycles as they are or slightly refurbished for riding, BMW Motorrad Italy has introduced a more significant pre-owned program called BMW Timeless. With this program, BMW Motorrad preserves its legacy by offering a new product line featuring the brand’s classic models. BMW Timeless brings a fresh perspective to the table, celebrating the love for vintage motorcycles. This program could potentially be expanded to other countries, catering to customers who have a desire for well-maintained vintage motorcycles that were originally sold by the manufacturers themselves.
We have been working with Dick Wilk for a long time. He is an experienced desert racer turned tuner and suspension specialist known for building powerful machines and improving their suspension. Recently, Dick brought us his latest creation based on the Husqvarna TX300. He was amazed by the stock engine, calling it the best 300 engine he has ever worked with. Despite his passion for modifying engines, he decided to leave this one stock, an unusual choice for him.
In addition to the engine, Dick put a lot of effort into upgrading the suspension. He installed his Hybrid AER kit on the air fork, which includes new valving and a spring setup. The goal was to improve versatility, provide a more comfortable ride, and achieve better balance. As for the shock, he made modifications to enhance traction, improve performance in rough terrain, and make the bike suitable for both desert racing and woods riding.
Dick has a special fondness for Husqvarna motorcycles, having raced them since the early 1980s. So, for his personal machine, he chose graphics that embrace the “Heritage” look. He also installed special wheels, made comfort updates, and added features to enhance high-speed handling and off-road protection. Let’s take a closer look at his modified Husqvarna TX300, the modifications he made, and the reasons behind them.
• Dick opted for a Scalvini cone pipe and silencer to handle the exhaust system of the TX300.
• Being an avid Husqvarna fan, he loved the “Heritage” look of the TX300. Decal Works took care of the graphics while Tusk rotors were added. The bike received black hubs with gold rims, Dunlop tires, and Nitromousse foam inserts in both wheels.
• For off-road riding, Dick installed a Seat Concepts Comfort saddle to provide better feel and traction while riding. The comfort shape of the seat maintains a similar contour to the stock seat at the front, allowing the rider’s legs to remain close together. Towards the middle, the seat tapers out to distribute the rider’s weight over a larger area. The Element cover of the seat features four traction ribs.
Custom gold/black wheels, Dunlop MX33 tires, a Primary drive chain and sprockets, Flexx bars, and a Scotts steering damper enhance Dick’s TX300.
The rear end of the bike underwent significant changes to match the performance of the Hybrid forks. A stiffer spring was installed for a 200-pound rider, and the valving was adjusted to provide smoother action, improved rebound, and increased resistance to bottoming out. The new no-tools adjusters made testing easier, although the rebound adjustment was a bit challenging. Nitromousse foam tubes were added inside the Dunlop MX33 tires, and the bike also received Tusk discs, sprockets, and a gold O-ring chain. The stock white plastic was replaced with OEM white plastic covered with graphics designed by Dicks Racing and produced by Decal Works. Additionally, a P3 carbon fiber skid plate with a linkage guard replaced the stock plastic skid plate.
Dick chose Flexx handlebars and a Scotts steering damper mounted on a BRP mount for improved feel, comfort, and stability. He also addressed the vulnerability of the radiator hose located between the frame and exhaust pipe. To prevent potential damage from rocks or debris, he added a tidy-white plastic splitloom protector.
Dicks Racing has been refining the AER forks since their introduction in 2017. Dick’s Hybrid system incorporates a new cartridge that accepts a spring while still utilizing the AER cartridge at a significantly reduced pressure (140psi down to 55psi). This eliminates the initial harshness caused by the excessive AER pressure. The Hybrid system retains the lightweight, progressive, and adjustable characteristics of the AER forks while providing a plush, controlled, and capable performance on big hits. STR also developed special push-button bleeders to complete the package.
Dick Wilk was impressed by the response and strength of the new powerplant. The throttle-body injection system and the electronically controlled power valve have greatly improved the powerband compared to the previous generation. The only modification he made to the engine was adding a Scalvini cone pipe and silencer. Most of his development time was spent on suspension tuning. The all-new frame required new settings to achieve the desired results. Both the front and rear suspension needed adjustments to provide better performance in rocky sections while maintaining proper support through whoops and G-outs.
Few names in the automotive world are as everlasting as Toyota. Wherever you go in the world, you will find vehicles produced by the legendary Japanese automaker. Founded by Kiichiro Toyoda in 1937, Toyota now operates in more than 170 countries worldwide and produces the highest-selling vehicle in a number of them.
While most people know Toyota for making passenger cars such as the Toyota Corolla and Camry and trucks such as the Toyota Tacoma and Toyota Tundra, Toyota has also made great strides in the luxury and sports car segments. True automotive enthusiasts recognize the pedigree Toyota has, and sports cars made by Toyota have a worldwide fanbase.
These vehicles are some of the most unique in the world because they combine two things: the reliability and accessibility that Toyota is known for, and the exhilarating performance and driving experience craved by enthusiasts. Factor in the sleek Japanese looks and styling cues, and you get a guaranteed recipe for success.
From the affordable GR86 to the fan-favorite Supra to the exotic Lexus LFA, Toyota has a wide-ranging portfolio of sports cars that caters to different tastes and preferences. Here are 10 things you should know about sports cars made by Toyota!
This one is a no-brainer: Toyota makes some of the most reliable vehicles in the world. Toyota’s commitment to reliability isn’t just limited to mass-produced vehicles like the Corolla, Camry, and Tacoma, though, as it stretches across its entire lineup of sports cars. Robust construction and well-engineered drivetrains are hallmarks of Toyota vehicles and its sports cars are the perfect embodiment of these two things as well.
Out of the current lineup, the Toyota GR86 is the prime example of this since it inherits Toyota’s engineering ethos and delivers a well-rounded package that is as accessible and reliable as it is fun and thrilling to drive. Toyota sports cars allow drivers to enjoy high-performance experiences without disturbing their peace of mind, and that’s where their greatest strength lies.
9Sports Cars Designed For Bleeding-Edge Performance
Toyota
2023 Toyota GR Supra in motion
No sports car is complete without exhilarating performance. While looking cool on the road is part of the appeal, it is imperative for a sports car to be as fast as possible. Fortunately, Toyota knows this and has even created a dedicated performance department dubbed Toyota Gazoo Racing. The GR sub-brand takes part in endurance and rally races and the expertise developed there is carried over to sports cars as part of Toyota’s lineup.
Cars such as the Toyota 86 and the Supra now come with the GR branding. The purpose of this department is to deliver cutting-edge performance by pushing the boundaries of speed, handling, and intelligent design. The current-generation Supra is a result of this relentless pursuit of excellence and has produced some amazing performance numbers.
8They Deliver Balanced Handling
Toyota
A front 3/4 action shot of a Toyota GR86 driving on the track
A high-performing sports car isn’t supposed to just go fast in a straight line. It is supposed to gracefully glide around corners, hugs the road when needed, and still be capable of tearing across it when you put your foot down. Toyota’s sports cars are renowned for their handling, delivering a harmonious balance between raw acceleration and grip that unfolds like a mechanical symphony at the hands of the right driver.
Toyota is known to meticulously fine-tune the suspension, chassis, and weight distribution of its sports cars to find this optimal balance. Whether it’s the GR86 with its razor-sharp handling or the GR Supra with its driver-friendly design, delivering an immersive and engaging driving experience is in the DNA of sports cars made by Toyota.
Unlike exotic sports cars brands like Lamborghini, Ferrari, or Aston Martin, the value of a Toyota doesn’t come from the brand name or badge. It comes from the driving experience it provides. Toyota’s sports cars are designed to be as accessible and driver-focused as possible, prioritizing the needs of the person behind the wheel more than anything else.
The cockpit usually has a no-nonsense design philosophy and the potential for modification is immense. The fourth-generation Toyota Supra is a fan-favorite when it comes to after-market builds, with some of them pushing more than 2000 horsepower. The resurrected current-generation Supra hasn’t been modified to that extent yet, but it is already setting some records.
6They Feature Sleek and Aerodynamic Styling
Toyota
Front and side shot of a silver 2003 Toyota Celica
In order to maximize the potential of every design, both in terms of aesthetics and efficiency, Toyota is known to carefully place each design element to optimize airflow and enhance performance. While functionality is very much the focus in most designs, the sweeping curves and aggressive lines on models like the old Cellica give Toyota’s sports cars a commanding and immediately recognizable presence on the road.
Aerodynamic features such as spoilers and diffusers are heavily involved in the design to improve downforce and stability at high speeds, and this results in some menacing-looking vehicles. Toyota’s commitment to sleek and aerodynamic styling is evident in its sports cars and ensures that they look as fast as they drive.
5They Are Equipped With Advanced Technology
Lexus
A studio shot of the front end of a 2011 Lexus LFA
Sports cars are engineering and technological marvels, and Toyota leaves no stone unturned to ensure its sports cars are equipped with the latest advances in automotive technology. From innovative driver-assistance features to the latest infotainment systems, these cars offer a unique blend of safety, convenience, and performance.
The technology isn’t just limited to big screens or safety features, though, since Toyota also equips its cars with advanced mechanical features adaptive suspensions, and innovative chassis construction. The iconic Lexus LFA, made by Toyota’s luxury sub-brand Lexus, is the perfect example of this. The LFA was ahead of its time when it comes to sports car tech, including a unique chassis composed of an aeronautical-grade carbon fiber-reinforced polymer monocoque that allowed for an extremely lightweight construction.
A shot of the 1991 Toyota Soarer engine bay with the 1JZ-GTE’s
If there is one thing that Toyota is known for apart from reliability, it’s efficiency. And we don’t just mean the ridiculous MPG figures delivered by hybrids such as the Toyota Prius. Toyota’s sports cars also have engines optimized for efficiency and squeeze out every last drop of potential from the fuel you put in them. Think of the highly tunable 1JZ and 2JZ engines from the 90s. In fact, the Mk4 Supra is a tuner’s wet dream.
Out of the current lineup of Toyota sports cars, the GR86 has a combined fuel economy rating of 22 MPG, the GR Corolla has a rating of 24 MPG and the GR Supra has a rating of 28 MPG for the base 2.0-liter version. Through continuous research and development, Toyota has produced remarkably efficient engines and these numbers are a testament to its commitment to efficiency in all types of vehicles.
3Many Of Them Have Track-Ready Versions
Toyota
A 2020 Toyota Supra GT4 on a track
The road is where you see most Toyotas, but Toyota has a rich motorsports history ranging from F1 to endurance championships. This racing pedigree is carried over to track-focused versions of Toyota’s sports car. The Supra A91-CF Edition, for example, was launched in 2021 as a track-ready version of the fifth-generation Supra.
It features a new carbon-fiber body kit and special-edition wheels and even came with a one-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association. The race-only version of the Supra is called the Supra GT4 and it recently received a refresh for the 2023 season. The GR86 has also received similar treatment with Toyota unveiling a track-focused GR86 Special Edition in 2022 along with a race-only version named the GR86 Cup.
2They Are Designed To Be Fun And Engaging To Drive
Toyota
The interior of a 2023 Toyota GR Supra with a manual transmission.
Sports cars made by Toyota deliver value in a lot of ways, but the driving experience is at the very core of them. Designed to be as accessible as possible but still have enough depth to appeal to enthusiasts, these cars are renowned for the refined driving experience they provide. The current-generation Supra is known as a driver’s car and has received glowing reviews for its responsive handling and impressive performance capabilities.
It doesn’t offer the most luxurious or spacious cockpit, but everything is optimized to deliver the best possible driving experience. The Lexus LFA, a showcase of Toyota’s engineering prowess, came with a naturally-aspirated V-10 and is widely recognized as one of the best-sounding cars ever. There are few things in life as joyous as the growl of a powerful engine as you put your foot down, and Toyota knows how to deliver that.
Toyota is not a brand that takes pleasure in breaking the bank and the prices of its sports cars reflect that. Out of the current lineup, the GR86 starts at $28,400, the GR Corolla starts at $35,900 and the GR Supra starts at $44,640. If you opt for the most powerful 3.0-liter Supra that produces 382 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque, it will set you back around $57,000.
These cars are not the most luxurious sports cars out there, nor are they as exotic as some of their European rivals, but they thrive at what they are meant to do. If you are looking for a sports car that can deliver all the thrills while still being affordable, you might want to visit your nearest Toyota dealer.
Unlock Your Automotive Passion and Explore the Road Ahead
